BRUCE KEITH WILTSE

Bruce Wiltse was born to the late Keith and Ariel Wiltse on Aug. 22, 1940, in Saginaw, Michigan.

Bruce’s family moved to Alpena, Michigan when he was 14 years old. His father and uncles formed Wiltse Bros Corp which built the caissons for the Mackinac Bridge at Rockport Beach. At 14 years old, Bruce started his own business selling candy and drinks to the men working on the caissons.

When Bruce was a junior at Alpena High School he met his future wife, Judy Riley, in algebra class. After graduation, Bruce joined the Army and was stationed in Verona, Italy. During his service, he married Judy and moved her to Italy. They had their first child, Megan, while in Italy. After moving back to California in 1961, they had their son, Bruce Jr., in 1963, followed by their daughter, Marni, in 1965.

He pursued all of his dreams which included moving to California, becoming a commercial fisherman until the fishing industry became too regulated, and then selling his boats to buy a semi-truck and trailer. He went coast to coast hauling freight, going over a million miles with no accidents — of which he was so proud. After 60 years of California living, he was bound and determined to spend the rest of his days in his beloved hometown, Alpena. He made this happen for himself, Judy, his daughter Marni, son-in-law Tim, and son Bruce Jr. in 2019.

Bruce was a fiercely loyal, morally correct, patriotic, hard-working, and selfless man. He was also fiercely stubborn and stuck to his conservative beliefs without wavering, no matter the compromise. He loved his family, friends, and country deeply. He kept most all of his friends for the entire duration of his life, something that not many people do. He had countless stories of his fishing and trucking days that he loved to share with those he was close to. His passions included fishing, rooting for the LA Dodgers, and watching NASCAR.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Judy. His sister Andrea Hartman (Bill). His son, Bruce Wiltse Jr., and daughter Marni Killgore (Tim). His grandchildren Ashlee Carranza (Luke), Jordan Mitchell (Cody), and Morgan Kromm (Andrew). His first great-granddaughter was born 20 days before his passing, Madison Megan Mitchell. He is preceded in death by his daughter Megan Eitel (Loyd), his sisters Alice Harsh (Daniel) and Amy Blasdell (Tim), and brother Michael.

“The life well lived” pertains to Bruce in every aspect. He lived life to his fullest, pursued his dreams, and encouraged others to do the same. He will be greatly missed by all. Bruce has been taken for cremation with no services planned at this time. McWilliams Funeral Home has assisted the family.